The Seahawks must win in Week 18 to have any chance of the playoffs. But can they beat a Rams team that is packing it up for the holidays? Los Angeles always gives Seattle fits, no matter how good either team’s roster is. But Seattle has no excuses this week; Their season is on the line and the Rams are done.
The question becomes which are the four teams will show up. “Four teams? Are you an idiot, Lee?” Well, sometimes I am but here is what I mean by that. The Rams are 2-2 in the last four games. In their wins, they looked great, especially in the demolition of the Broncos two games ago 51-14. But then last week, Los Angeles was beaten easily by the Chargers 31-10.
There are two teams that could show up in Week 18 for the Rams – one is good, and one is not. But the same can be said of the Seahawks. During a four-game stretch between weeks 6 and 9, Seattle’s defense was mostly very good and the offense too. But Seattle’s defense was awful again until Week 16 against the Chiefs. Will the Seahawks’ good side show up in Week 18 or their bad?
Either way, Los Angeles has zero to play for other than the motivation to defeat an NFC West rival and destroy any hopes Seattle has for the playoffs. Seattle overall wants to win to put themselves in a position to make the postseason if the Packers lose later on Sunday. Plus, quarterback Geno Smith is still playing for his next contract and a victory in Week 18 would make him look even better.
Staff predictions for Seahawks vs. Rams Week 18
Todd Vandenberg: Seattle 26 Rams 18
Jake Luppino: Seattle 21 Rams 16
Andrew Bailie: Seattle 26 Rams 19
Karley Sibert: Seattle 24 Rams 21
Matt Holm: Seattle 27 Rams 21
Lee Vowell: Rams 21 Seattle 20